NCC Overhauls Telecom Policy for Digital Economy Growth
NCC held National Telecommunications Policy Review Workshop in Lagos Tuesday to overhaul the 2000 policy framework. Stakeholders called for comprehensive review aligned with emerging technologies and digital economy ambitions.
NCC Executive Vice Chairman Dr. Aminu Maida highlighted how the sector evolved from limited telephone access to advanced digital ecosystem with broadband, AI, 5G and cloud infrastructure. The old policy had fewer than 500,000 lines for 120 million Nigerians but now faces new challenges: fiber cuts, infrastructure vandalism, high energy costs, multiple taxation, permitting delays and rural connectivity gaps.
Telecommunications is described as 'productivity infrastructure for the entire economy,' affecting commerce, agriculture, healthcare, education and financial services. Special Adviser Hadiza Bala Usman emphasized the policy must move beyond documents to deliver measurable outcomes, supporting President Tinubu's Eight Presidential Priorities.
The review aims to preserve core principles while developing modern framework supporting innovation, investment, resilience and broadband expansion. A new National Telecommunications Policy 2026 is expected, with stronger inter-agency coordination and clearer implementation roadmap.